Sojourner Truth in 1879
Who was Sojourner Truth? She was an ex-slave who never learned to read or write. She joined abolitionist causes and women’s right’s causes. But most important was her evangelism. She was led by the Holy Spirit to first and foremost save souls for Christ. Once she was free, she gave herself the name Sojourner Truth. She chose “Sojourner,” because she was always on the move, and “Truth,” because she felt led to spread God’s truth. When she stopped in Bloomington on her way to Kansas, she told the railroad agent that she would give a public speech if a place could be found. Second Presbyterian Church offered. On September 18, 1879, we were the heart of Christ in the heart of the community as the old church was filled to overflowing to hear Sojourner Truth, a woman dependent on these free will offerings for her support.
Sojourner Truth in 2019
Just as our church did 140 years before, we rolled out the red carpet for a Sojourner Truth Re-enactment on September 18, 2019. More than 500 people filled our church to see Patricia James Davis’ remarkable portrayal of Sojourner, to hear the combined choirs of Mt. Pisgah, Wayman A. M. E. and Second Pres praise the Lord, and to sing a rousing Battle Hymn of the Republic before enjoying refreshments provided by our church members in the Fellowship Hall as guests mingled with Sojourner Truth. David Strand remarked, “What a glorious event. To view the large, responsive crowd and have so many people say "Thank You", as they left the sanctuary were truly rewarding moments in our church history.” Once again, the heart of Christ in the heart of the community.